The District of Mackenzie Fire Rescue Department oversees the Burning and Fireworks Permits, which are required for any open fire and fireworks display within District boundaries, as outlined in District of Mackenzie Bylaws No. 1249 and No. 1204.

Burning permits are categorized based on the type and duration of the burn, and each category has specific conditions that must be met, including restrictions on burning prohibited materials, wind speed limits, and the presence of fire suppression equipment. Burning is not allowed when the forestry hazard is high or extreme, and permit holders must comply with all provincial and federal legislation. Recreational Fire Permits are issued all year round, and expire on December 31st. Category #1, Category #2, and Category #3 permits are valid for a maximum of 30 days from the date of issue, and may not be permitted at certain times of the year due to extreme Fire Hazards.

DEFINITIONS

Recreational

The burning of wood for recreational purposes in a permanent outdoor fireplace, barbecue or fire pit not larger than 1 m in diameter that is designed and constructed to confine the fire and is suitable for such a purpose, or within a fully enclosed burner or similar device.

Category #1

An open fire that burns piled material no larger than 1 m in height and 1 m in diameter and includes a campfire that burns such material.

Category #2

An open fire that

  • burns material in one pile not exceeding 2 m in height and 3 m in width
  • burns material concurrently in 2 piles each not exceeding 2 m in height and 3 m in width, or
  • burns stubble or grass over an area that does not exceed 0.2 ha

Category #3

An open fire that burns

  • material concurrently in 3 or more piles each not exceeding 2 m height and 3 m in width
  • material in one or more piles each exceeding 2 m in height or 3 m in width,
  • one or more windrows, or
  • stubble or grass over an area exceeding 0.2 ha

Fireworks display permits are also regulated to ensure public safety. These permits authorize the possession and use of fireworks for specific displays and require adherence to Bylaw No. 1204. The permit holder assumes responsibility for the safe storage, firing, and disposal of fireworks, and must follow all guidelines set forth by the district.

Step 1 - Fill out the Permit Application below.

Step 2 - Submit the Application when you finish filling it out. You will have an email sent to yourself to confirm your submission, and an email with your application will be sent to the Fire Department for review and approval.

Step 3 - The Fire Department will review your permit application and get back to you within 3 Business Days.

Step 4 - Once your Permit is approved, make sure to have a Physical or Digital copy of your permit approval available to present to a Fire Department, Bylaw, or Law Enforcement Officer if requested.